From ovulation until your period

Luteal phase

Progesterone rises after ovulation. As your period approaches, PMS symptoms like bloating and mood changes are common.

What's happening

After ovulation, the follicle that released the egg produces progesterone to prepare the uterine lining. If pregnancy doesn't happen, hormone levels drop in the days before your period, which is when PMS symptoms tend to show up.

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If PMS seriously affects your mood, work, or relationships, talk with a doctor. Severe symptoms can be a sign of PMDD, which is treatable.

Next up: menstrual phase